Election Day is quickly approaching. On November 4, voters across Eagle County will once again have both the opportunity and the responsibility to weigh in on issues that will shape our community for years to come.

Voting is more than just filling in circles on a ballot; it is an act of civic duty. It’s how we each play a direct role in the direction of our towns, our county, and our state. In an era when public trust is fragile and national politics often dominate the headlines, local elections and ballot measures remind us that democracy is not a spectator sport. It only works when we show up.

This year’s coordinated election includes several local ballot measures of significance. While the Vail Valley Partnership board has reviewed these issues and taken formal positions in some cases and neutral stances in others, my message here is less about how to vote and more about why you should.

Let’s start with two proposals related to lodging taxes.

In the Town of Vail, voters will decide whether to implement a new 6% excise tax on short-term rentals. If passed, the revenue—estimated at $7.2 million annually—would fund local housing initiatives. We have concerns about the inequity with traditional hotel properties and the resulting confusion to guests with lodges having two different tax rates. That said, housing remains one of our valley’s greatest challenges, and this measure represents one potential tool to address it. 

Meanwhile, in unincorporated Eagle County and the Town of Gypsum, voters will be asked to double the existing lodging tax from 2% to 4%. The proceeds are intended to support childcare and wildfire mitigation efforts. Again, concerns exist on the impacts to our visitor economy given economic headwinds and uncertainty.

The Partnership has a neutral stance on both lodging tax proposals. We recognize the community needs they seek to address and acknowledge concerns from the business community about competitiveness and economic impacts. Regardless of your position, these questions deserve your thoughtful consideration.

Another important measure comes from the Eagle River Water & Sanitation District, which is asking voters to fund infrastructure projects through a mill levy increase. If the measure fails, the district will move forward by raising user fees. Either way, the work must be done—our water infrastructure is not optional.

Finally, Colorado Mountain College is asking for voter support with Ballot Measure 7C. This proposal is not a new tax but rather a continuation of the authority that voters first granted in 2018. If approved, it will allow CMC to invest in training skilled trades professionals, nurses, firefighters, and first responders, while also supporting housing solutions for local talent.

As chair of the CMC board, I have seen firsthand how these investments ripple across our community. CMC is the only local provider of skilled trades and first responder training in the central mountains. Passage of 7C means more opportunities for local students, stronger workforce readiness, and healthier communities.

At its core, voting is about stewardship. We inherit the communities we live in from those who came before us, and we shape them for those who will come after. Casting a ballot is an act of investment in our shared future.

So, here’s my ask: read your blue book, talk with your neighbors, study the issues, and make your plan to vote. Whether you vote yes or no, lean left or right, your voice strengthens the foundation of our valley’s civic life.

Elections aren’t abstract exercises; they are tangible opportunities to make a difference. On November 4, let’s all do our part and vote.

Chris Romer is president & CEO of Vail Valley Partnership, 3-time national chamber of the year. Learn more at VailValleyPartnership.com